Bobrovsky, a nominee for the Vezina Trophy as given to the NHL's top goalie, can become a restricted free agent on July 5. As the Dispatch suggests, the 24-year-old will receive a hefty raise over the $1.75 million he made this year.

If a deal isn't reached by the start of free agency, the Blue Jackets risk another team signing Bobrovsky to an offer sheet. While this might be a rarity in the league, it's something the team is aware of.

"That's something we can't control," Kekalainen said. "It's obvious what we're going to do if it goes that far. We have great ownership; committed ownership. We would match any offer there might be, but I'm optimistic we won't get to that point."

Meanwhile, the Dispatch also reports talks between the Blue Jackets and center Artem Anisimov are ongoing.

Anisimov, 24, can also become an RFA this summer. He just wrapped up a two-year, $3.75 million deal where he earned $1.875 million per season.